### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **ʼaph**, represented by `{{H638}}`, functions as an adverb or conjunction meaning **also** or **yea**. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. Its primary role is one of accession, adding a clause or detail to a preceding statement.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H638}}` is used to add important information in official communications and declarations. In the book of Ezra, it is part of a royal decree from King Cyrus concerning the items taken by Nebuchadnezzar, specifying that the vessels of gold and silver must **also** be returned to the temple in Jerusalem ([[Ezra 5:14]], [[Ezra 6:5]]). It is also used to describe the thoroughness of an inquiry, where officials **asked** the names of the leaders **also** to certify them in a report [[Ezra 5:10]]. In Daniel's defense, he uses the word to declare his complete innocence, stating he was blameless before God and had **also** done no hurt before the king [[Daniel 6:22]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context in which `{{H638}}` is used to add information:
* `{{H3984}}` **mâʼn** (vessel): This word for utensil or **vessel** is central to the decrees in Ezra. The commands specify that the **gold** `{{H1722}}` and **silver** `{{H3702}}` **vessels** taken from God's house were **also** to be returned [[Ezra 5:14]].
* `{{H7593}}` **shᵉʼêl** (ask): This verb, meaning to **ask** or demand, sets up the use of `{{H638}}` in an official inquiry. Leaders rebuilding the temple were asked for their names **also** in order to certify them to the king [[Ezra 5:10]].
* `{{H2248}}` **chăbûwlâh** (hurt): In his defense, Daniel declares he has done no **hurt** before the king, using `{{H638}}` to parallel this with his **innocency** `{{H2136}}` before God [[Daniel 6:22]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H638}}` lies in its function of providing clarity and completeness in pivotal statements:
* **Emphasis in Royal Decrees:** In the commands issued by Persian kings, `{{H638}}` is used to add crucial details, ensuring the full scope of an order is understood. For instance, the decree for the temple's restoration specifically notes that the gold and silver **vessels** must **also** be returned [[Ezra 6:5]].
* **Completeness in Testimony:** Daniel uses the word to construct a comprehensive defense. By stating his innocence before God and **also** his lack of wrongdoing before the king, he leaves no ambiguity in his declaration [[Daniel 6:22]].
* **Thoroughness in Official Records:** The word is used to show due diligence in administrative matters. When the leaders of the Jews were questioned, they made sure to **ask** `{{H7593}}` for names **also**, so they could fully **write** `{{H3790}}` a report for the king [[Ezra 5:10]].
### Summary
In summary, the Aramaic conjunction **ʼaph** `{{H638}}` is a simple but important word for "also." Though appearing only four times, its use is consistent and impactful. It serves to add weight and specificity to royal decrees concerning the temple **vessels** `{{H3984}}` in Ezra, and to complete a critical declaration of innocence in Daniel. The word `{{H638}}` demonstrates how even minor linguistic elements are vital for ensuring the precision and legal force of the biblical narrative.
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